GRAND RAPIDS - While educators want kids in class every day, being counted as present on Wednesday translates into much-needed money for Grand Rapids and school districts across the state.

Attendance on "Count Day" is used to determine how much money each school district will get from the state, per student, to support their education.

"The resources are so important to our students, but it's important that our kids are in the district every day, not just because its count day,'' said Grand Rapids Interim Superintendent Teresa Weatherall Neal, about declining enrollment resulting in less operating revenue.

This is the second count day this school year. The students counted Oct. 5 - approximately 18,100 for Grand Rapids - were worth 90 percent of the district's state aid. Wednesday's count will be worth 10 percent. The school district's per pupil funding is currently at $6,917, according to the finance department.

Grand Rapids schools have been battling declining enrollment, losing more than a quarter of its students in the last 10 years. The district has really tried to drive home the significance of count day to students and families, and has been campaigning for attendance. Officials are asking the community to spread the word via email, Facebook, Twitter and good old word of mouth to family, friends and neighbors.

"We serve the most vulnerable students and while we want them in class every day, we need parents to put forth extra effort to get them there on count day (Wednesday)," said school board member Maureen Slade. "We just have to keep reminding them how important it is financially."

Last year, the district did not exceed the 400 students it projected losing but still suffered a loss of $2.7 million.

The school district is seeking volunteers to hand out fliers in their neighborhood, assist the school with follow up calls and provided rides for students who need to get to school.

Officials have also asked to be called Wednesday if a resident sees school-aged children out and about, and not in school. Callers can reach district staff at 616-819-2500 or public safety at 616-819-2100.

Email:mscott2@mlive.com and follow on twitter at Twitter.com/GRPScotty.